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MMR is a vaccine
which protects children against Measles, Mumps and Rubella
(German Measles). The vaccine is given to children at 15 months
and again as a booster before they go to school. Since its
introduction in Northern Ireland in 1988, the number of children
catching these serious diseases has fallen to an all time
low.
The Agency was
recently commissioned by the Department of Health, Social
Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) to revise its information
for parents and health professionals in light of publicity
surrounding the MMR vaccine.
A new booklet
on MMR is now distributed by the
Child Health System to the parents of young children, along
with an appointment date for the child to receive the immunisation.
It can also be slipped into the child's personal health record
or 'red book' to provide information at the appropriate time.
In keeping with
the Agency's commitment to promote equality of access to information
where possible, audiotapes of the booklet were produced for
parents who are blind or visually impaired and for members
of the Travelling community. A number of written translations
were also produced for use by parents from a minority ethnic
community.
From the beginning
of April 2001, special packs containing a range of materials
on MMR have been made available to all GPs and to other health
professionals such as health visitors and consultant paediatricians.
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